WEEKENDER: A beer birthday bash, a 24-hour film screening, an ice cream workshop, and four more events this spring weekend

ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL
As environmental questions become more prevalent with Earth Day just around the corner (April 22, for those who don’t know), the Canadian Museum of Nature is once again hosting The Best of Planet in Focus Film Festival. Eight beautiful award-winning documentaries in both French and English will cover important environmental issues such as farming, oil production, climate change, and polar exploration. After the screenings, take part in scintillating conversation with guest speakers who will expand on topics from the films. Wednesday, April 18, to Saturday, April 21. $15, students seniors and members $12. Canadian Museum of Nature, 240 McLeod St., www.nature.ca/filmfest.

CHRISTIAN MARCLAY: THE CLOCK
Using scenes of people looking at clocks, which he cut together from thousands of different movies, Christian Marclay has created a 24-hour-long film. The National Gallery of Canada will play this fascinating (and we admit, completely absorbing) film on Thursdays for special 24-hour screenings over the next few weeks. If you have somewhere else to be (or can’t stay for the full 24 hours) you won’t need to worry about being late, as every clock on screen reflects the accurate time in the real world. Thursday, April 19, until Monday, May 3 (regular screenings on until May 21). $9 gallery admission during regular hours, free between 5 p.m. and 10 a.m. National Gallery of Canada, 380 Sussex Dr., www.gallery.ca.

EXHIBITION NO. 7 (FREE!)
The School of the Photographic Arts: Ottawa presents a blend of work from the portfolios of its students at today’s vernissage. These photographs reflect on a broad range of ideas, including self-discovery, natural environments, and contemporary social issues. This collection will be viewable as both exhibition pieces and completed portfolios as you scope out the city’s up-and-coming talent. Friday, April 20, to Friday, April 27. School of the Photographic Arts: Ottawa, 168 Dalhousie St., www.spao.ca.

GALLERY 101 (FREE!)
Dan Waber, a world-renowned visual poet, is showcasing his work at Gallery 101 this weekend. Part of the A B Series, Waber’s poems use complex arrangements of words and letters to convey meaning beyond what ordinary words can supply, so they’re appealing to both ears and eyes. Don’t get it? Check it out for yourself when the American artist comes to town. Saturday, April 21. 8 p.m. Gallery 101, 301 ½ Bank St., www.g101.ca.

OTTAWA WEDDING SHOW (FREE!)
Couples looking to get hitched will find an endless list of ideas for their nuptials. Experts provide advice on checking out reception venues, how to avoid costly mistakes, deciding on whom to invite (that cousin once removed? Your parents’ neighbours?), and other concerns of the newly engaged. With fashion shows, seminars, a wedding gown sale, and more, this event will make it that much easier to get down the aisle. Saturday, April 21, and Sunday, April 22. CE Centre, 4899 Uplands Dr., www.ottawaweddingshow.com.

HOGSBACK BREWING COMPANY
The Hogsback Brewing Company is only two years old, not even old enough to drink yet (ha ha), but it’s throwing itself a wild birthday bash anyway. The brewery is thanking its loyal customers with a night of rockin’ entertainment from the band Barry & The Blasters, and of course birthday cake, all at the Elmdale House Tavern. Proceeds will go to Christie Lake Kids camp. Saturday, April 21. $20. 7 p.m. Elmdale House Tavern, 1084 Wellington St. West, www.elmdaletavern.com.

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